The orchids are exceptional plant species: some are terrestrial and others – epiphytic. The epiphytic varieties do not root themselves in the ground but settle on other plants or rocks. Some representatives of the second group can be kept beautifully in glass, including in decorative terrariums. If you want to learn more about it, read on. You can keep and care for the following orchids in a glass.
Keeping orchids in the glass – this is how it works
Can you plant orchids in a glass and keep them without a substrate?
Most epiphytic orchids do not need a substrate to grow. The aerial roots absorb nutrients and water from the air. This makes glass a suitable cover pot candidate for orchids. If you can start such a culture in a jar yourself, you will be surprised by the decorative added value of the exotic plant. The translucent material gives you a view of the epiphytic orchid’s graceful aerial roots and the plant as a whole looks great in the glass container such as a glass sphere.
The orchids in the jar look beautiful
Vanda orchids are best for growing in a glass jar as this variety grows on other plants or rocks in its natural habitat. Note the following aspects when it comes to choosing the right glass pot.
- Well ventilated glass: You must allow good air circulation by keeping the jar open. Otherwise, moisture can accumulate, which can lead to a whole range of problems, including mold and rot.
- No blazing sun: While Vanda Orchids need light, they do not thrive in full sun. It is best to position the exotic at an east or west window.
- Just a little substrate: Add bark, peat moss or other soilless medium to the jar.
- Spray the leaves: Vanda orchids need adequate humidity to thrive. Regularly spray water on the leaves and roots of the plant to ensure they receive adequate moisture.
Vanda orchids can be grown in a jar without soil
How to care for the orchids in the glass?
Vanda orchids are monopodial orchids, meaning they grow on a single stem and the roots develop from the base. Native to rocky areas with little soil, these orchids do not need soil. Temperatures between 21 – 32 degrees are optimal, and the humidity should be at least 60 percent.
Temperature: 21-32 degrees, humidity – 60-80%
#Irrigation
Keep in mind: There doesn’t have to be standing moisture in the glass jar. It is best to use rainwater or low-lime tap water without chemicals. The frequency of watering is once or twice a week.
Water once or twice a week during the active growth phase
It is best to pour Vanda in the form of a water bath: fill the glass with water and let the orchid soak for 30 minutes. Then pour off the liquid.
#Fertilization
So that the orchid in the glass can grow vigorously and bloom magnificently, provide it with a liquid orchid fertilizer. It is best to add the fertilizer to the water with which you make the watering bath. Only fertilize the orchid during the active vegetation phase and not during the dormant period.
Put the orchid fertilizer in the water bath
Orchids in jars with moss and stones in the form of terrariums
Not all orchid species can be arranged in the form of terrariums with moss and stones. But that works with Phalaenopsis and dendrobium. You can design a beautiful terrarium yourself at home – it will be a real eye-catcher.
Caring for orchids in the glass with moss
How to arrange the orchid with moss and stones in a glass jar (instructions)
- Place a layer of gravel or small rocks on the bottom of the jar. How to design the drainage.
- Add a layer of moss.
- Position the orchid in the jar.
- Continue filling with damp moss around the roots.
- Fix the orchid with a few larger pebbles so that it stays in place and does not slip inside.
Tip: The moss does not have to be wet, but slightly damp. Avoid positioning the orchid too deep, otherwise the roots will not get enough air.
Always keep the jar open
